Hawaii Senate Bill SCR86

Hawaii 2024 Regular Session

• Introduced: 3/8/24
• Refer: 3/14/24

Caption

Requesting The United States Attorney For The District Of Hawaii And Prosecuting Attorney Of The City And County Of Honolulu To Prosecute All Cases Within The Weed And Seed Sites In Hawaii.

Impact

This resolution brings attention to the ongoing challenges of crime in specific neighborhoods, particularly those that have been targeted by the Weed and Seed program. By emphasizing the need for coordinated prosecution efforts in these areas, SCR86 aims to enhance the safety of communities located within the designated sites. It seeks to address not only criminal activities such as drug-related offenses but also to ensure that offenders are kept away from these neighborhoods when appropriate.

Summary

SCR86 is a Senate Concurrent Resolution from Hawaii that requests the United States Attorney for the District of Hawaii and the Prosecuting Attorney of Honolulu to prosecute all cases within designated Weed and Seed sites in Hawaii. Operation Weed and Seed, established in 1991, aims to combat drug-related crime and violence in high-crime neighborhoods by employing a dual approach that involves both law enforcement (the 'weed' aspect) and community revitalization services (the 'seed' aspect).

Contention

Some points of contention surrounding SCR86 may include concerns over the effectiveness of the Weed and Seed program itself as well as the broader implications of increased law enforcement presence in targeted neighborhoods. Debates might arise regarding the balance between criminal prosecution and community relations, as an intensified law enforcement approach could lead to mistrust among residents. Stakeholders may discuss the importance of integrating social services and community support into the Weed and Seed strategy in order to prevent recidivism and promote long-term neighborhood restoration.